Spin-off sitcom planned for Joey

Rumours that Friends is to spawn a spin-off series are gathering pace in the States.

The NBC network, keen to find a successor for its cash cow, is reportedly in talks with star Matt LeBlanc for a follow-up series about his character Joey Tribbiani.

According to the Hollywood Reporter, no deals are yet in place but "talks are accelerating".

Friends writers Scott Silveri and Shana Goldberg-Meehan have reportedly been approached to create the pilot script should a deal be struck.

LeBlanc's bargaining position was strengthened last week when he was nominated for an Emmy award - the only male star of the long-running show to make the shortlist.

NBC and Friends makers Warner Bros. TV have declined to comment on the rumours.

Published: 21 Jul 2003